The government is reportedly planning a new security measure to keep a closer watch on satellite internet services offered by foreign companies like Elon Musk’s Starlink. According to a report, the Centre is considering developing a hardware device that would allow authorities to monitor internet traffic passing through foreign satellite networks. At the time of writing, the proposal is still being discussed by the government authorities. Here’s everything you need to know about the proposed plan.
According to a report by the Economic Times, the government is discussing a security device that would act as a checkpoint for satellite internet traffic between users in India and overseas satellite networks.
The device could be installed at users’ premises or satellite ground stations, and it would reportedly allow authorities to monitor traffic handled by foreign satellite internet companies.
An official speaking anonymously reportedly told ET that all satellite traffic would have to pass through this hardware. As per the report, the design and working process have not been finalised, and it is unclear when the device could be introduced.
The government is also expected to involve public-sector research organisations and private companies in developing the device.
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National security remains the main concern for the government, as the authorities are reported to be concerned about the vulnerability of being reliant on foreign firms for communication facilities in case of emergency or warfare.
Unlike the traditional broadband internet, the satellite internet makes use of satellites and earth stations to facilitate internet connectivity, and the control is with the technology firms that are miles away. While talking about Starlink, the main control will lie in the US.
However, with the new device, India is expected to ensure the ability to regulate satellite internet traffic and to safeguard the country against any potential security threat.
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The proposal comes as Starlink continues to face regulatory delays in India. Government officials have previously said the company has not met certain requirements, including those related to domestic infrastructure. Elon Musk has expressed frustration over the delays.
The Centre maintains that all satellite internet providers must meet India’s security requirements before getting spectrum. It has rejected Starlink’s claims of discrimination, saying Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb and Reliance Jio’s satellite business are at the same stage of the approval process.
Meanwhile, officials have also reportedly taken note of complaints involving Starlink in other countries. Iran, Namibia and South Africa have raised concerns about it providing services without the required permissions, while in Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused the company of slowing internet speeds.